Quenton Nelson’s contract extension could be similar to Aaron Donald’s in a way
The Indianapolis Colts have to give a contract extension to Quenton Nelson and it may be similar to Aaron Donald’s recent restructure.
Recently, the Los Angeles Rams gave Aaron Donald a record-breaking contract restructure. Donald, who is the best player in the NFL, was made the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. A very deserving title.
Soon, the Indianapolis Colts will have to hand out a very large extension to their own talented linemen. Quenton Nelson, left guard for Indy, is entering the final season of his rookie contract and is set up to be paid a lot of money.
Both Nelson and Donald play in the trenches, on the interior to be specific. Although they play on different sides of the ball, their new contracts will likely be similar in a way besides both being a lot of money.
Typically, it’s the players on the end of the lines that get the biggest contracts, edge rushers, and left tackles. As Donald’s contract is more along the lines of edge rushers, Nelson’s new contract should mirror elite left tackles.
Quenton Nelson on his looming contract extension: "Not focused on that."
— Joel A. Erickson (@JoelAErickson) June 7, 2022
Colts will probably give Quenton Nelson tackle money
Typically, quarterbacks, left tackles, and edge rushers are some of the highest-paid players in the league. All three are central to a productive passing game or containing it.
However, sometimes there are generational players that can display their dominance from a different position. That’s what Aaron Donald and Quenton Nelson have been doing in their time in the league.
Currently, the 15 highest-paid offensive linemen are all tackles. The first guard is Brandon Scherff, making $16.5 annually. Trent Williams, a left tackle, is making $23.01 annually as the highest-paid offensive lineman.
It’s more likely that Nelson’s new contract will be closer to the tackle’s range of $20 million annually as opposed to $16 million for guards. His talent transcends his position and that should be reflected in his contract.
Through four seasons, Nelson has made four Pro Bowls and four All-Pro teams while only allowing four sacks. He’s an elite player and one of the best overall offensive linemen in the NFL. As a result, he should be paid like a left tackle.
